Ruhullah slams Modi regime, media for collective punishment of Kashmiris
New Delhi: Member of Indian Parliament from National Conference, Agha Ruhullah Mehdi, has lambasted the Modi government, Indian media and investigative agencies for “a recurring pattern of collective punishment” against the people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir after any violent incident.
According to Kashmir Media Service,Ruhullah addressing the parliament questioned, “Has anyone said today that war is waged with Pakistan later, but first it is always waged with Kashmiris?” He condemned the recent demolitions in Kashmir, stating that 13 houses were destroyed on allegations of being “suspect homes,” without proper legal procedure or evidence.
Ruhullah said that innocent civilians often bear the brunt of the response to violent acts. “After Pahalgam attack, 13 homes were blasted in Kashmir. Why? Just because someone said they might belong to suspects? Is there any law for this?” he asked.
The National Conference MP also raised concerns over arbitrary arrests and the misuse of authority in Kashmir. “More than 2,000 youths were detained after incidents like Pulwama and Pahalgam. Was there any law followed? Or was it simply punishment for being Kashmiri,” he questioned.
Ruhullah highlighted that Kashmiris continue to live under intense restrictions. “Every five kilometres, we are stopped. Our youth are jailed and beaten. Even Kashmiri students and traders across India face violence, eviction, and harassment,” he said.
He further stated that media narratives following such incidents often contribute to negative stereotyping of Kashmiris. He pointed to reports of violence and discrimination against Kashmiri students and workers in Indian states including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Delhi.
